Lycoming News

The University of Pennsylvania men's basketball team achieved a remarkable comeback victory against NJIT on Monday night, securing a 58-57 win. The Quakers were behind for the majority of the game, trailing by as much as 17 points with just over 13 minutes remaining. However, they managed to rally with a decisive 17-0 run, while NJIT went scoreless for 9:30 minutes.

Head coach Steve Donahue saw his team improve to 6-3 in season-opening games under his leadership. The Quakers took their first lead late in the game when Ethan Roberts made a second-chance layup with only 2:41 left on the clock, putting them ahead at 55-54.

Junior transfer Dylan Williams was Penn's top scorer with 17 points. Ethan Roberts emerged as the key player, scoring nine of Penn's last ten points and hitting the crucial free throw with just 1.6 seconds remaining to secure the win. Roberts concluded the night with a total of 15 points.

Senior Nick Spinoso contributed seven points and led in rebounds and assists for Penn. On NJIT's side, Sebastian Robinson and Tariq Francis each scored 20 points. Robinson also led all players with nine rebounds.

The game began unfavorably for Penn due to foul trouble and turnovers, allowing NJIT to take an early lead. The Highlanders extended their advantage to as much as 17 points during the first half before entering halftime leading by twelve.

In the second half, Penn started strong by narrowing NJIT's lead through successful free throws by Roberts. Despite another push from NJIT that widened their lead again, Penn slowly chipped away at it until finally taking control in the final minutes.

Penn will host Maryland-Eastern Shore on Thursday night at The Palestra for their home opener at 7 p.m.